Grassroots players have hailed England's penalty heroes after the Lionesses defeated Spain in a dramatic shootout to win the European Championship final. Fans across the UK packed pubs and community centres, with viewing figures expected to surpass the 17.4 million peak from the semi-final.
At the Leyton Star pub in east London, hundreds of fans draped in flags watched Chloe Kelly score the winning penalty. Emmeline Wilcox, who plays for local team Bow Belles, said: 'I don't know how they always do this – I lose faith every time. But it was amazing. So inspirational.'
Inter Melanin, a grassroots club formed after the 2022 Euros to increase representation of women of colour, has seen its popularity explode, with a waitlist of 200. Member Thema Archer noted progress but said: 'There's a long way to go – it starts from grassroots and young players need to be empowered.'
The tournament has boosted interest in women's football, with Women's Super League ticket sales soaring and grassroots teams doubling. Kelsea Sunu, who runs Wingers FC, observed more people watching but noted group stages still lag behind the men's game.
Lorna Masters of Hot Shots United said the tournament was 'absolutely incredible', adding that pubs have been full and passionate. She recalled barriers growing up, such as no girls' football in PE, but said: 'Now people are really excited about women's football. How cool would that have been when we were kids?'
